Café du Parc
Photo: Mary Clayton Carl
Block parties and pig roasts at local dining spots are among the tempting alternatives to sweltering over a smoky grill this Fourth of July.
Café du Parc: The Willard Intercontinental Hotel’s French bistro is celebrating with an à la carte menu featuring the likes of a "Paris-Washington Hamburger," as well as an outdoor bash on its terrace with a live rock band, not to mention a crêpe station (5–9 PM; 202-942-7000; reserve online).
Charlie Palmer Steak: This New American just steps from the Mall is hosting an indoor block party with passed hors d’oeuvres, a roast suckling pig, picnic fare, a chocolate fountain, cotton candy machines and more (4–8:30 PM; $45 adults, $18 children; 202-547-8100; walk-ins welcome).
Tabaq Bistro: At this U Street Corridor Med, the glassed-in rooftop terrace (with its spectacular views) is serving a four-course dinner ($95; seatings at 8 and 8:30 PM), while the regular tapas menu will be served in the lower-floor dining rooms (202-265-0965; reserve online).
TenPenh: This Downtown Pan-Asian is rolling out half-priced deals on appetizers like lobster rangoon and duck confit spring rolls, and pouring $5 cocktails in the bar and outside patio. Bonus: it offers $7 valet parking near the Mall (3–6 PM and 9:30 PM–close; 202-393-4500; reserve online).
2941 Restaruant: In Falls Church, those with a historic bent can indulge in a three-course, French-inflected New American prix fixe while perusing two antique copies of the Declaration of Independence ($58; Virginian wine pairings, $30 extra); the à la carte menu will also be available (11 AM–8 PM on July 4 and 5; 703-270-1500; reserve online).